Follow these three rules to avoid future headaches:
Centralize Keys in VLSC: Always download the "License Summary" PDF from VLSC and store it on a network share.
Use Active Directory-Based Activation (ADBA): For RDS CALs, consider installing the RD Licensing role on a VM that gets backed up daily. Back up the C:\Windows\System32\LServer folder. how to find rds license key
You cannot find what is not there. If you inherited a server and no one ever bought RDS CALs, you will never find a key. The licensing server may have used a trial license (120 days) or a temporary license. If the grace period is over, you must buy new CALs.
Do not waste time trying to "extract" the original 25-character key from a working license server. It is cryptographically hashed and cannot be reversed. Follow these three rules to avoid future headaches:
If you bought through SHI, CDW, SoftwareOne, or Insight:
To create a report of your RDS license details: Centralize Keys in VLSC: Always download the "License
Solution: Use PowerShell (Method 7) on the old server if it boots. If not, contact the Microsoft Clearinghouse (1-800-936-4900 in the US) with your Volume License Agreement number. They can reissue key pack IDs.
Check your original purchase confirmation:
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